Final-bound PLDT bounced back from a narrow first-set defeat to dispatch ZUS Coffee in four sets, 24-26, 25-17, 25-17, 25-14, completing a sweep of the 2025 Premier Volleyball League Invitational eliminations on Thursday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The High Speed Hitters once again displayed their depth, with four players scoring in double figures to finish the preliminaries with a perfect 5-0 record.
They also extended their winning streak to 12 matches, dating back to their preseason championship campaign.
(C) PVL Images
“Yon nga, siguro ‘yung reminders lang talaga na ‘wag masyadong malayo ‘yung tingin muna. Like ‘yon nga, ‘yung respect sa kalaban, ‘yung complacency kailangan talagang tanggalin, saka kailangan talaga i-push kasi sagad na sagad na talaga ‘yung mga tao,” said PLDT head coach Rald Ricafort.
“So, happy kami na lalo with Dell [Palomata] na napakawalan, nakagamit na sa kaniya. So may extra boost ng energy para sa ‘min,” he added.
Savannah Davison spearheaded PLDT’s charge with 26 points built on 24 attacks and two kill blocks, while also contributing 12 excellent digs and seven excellent receptions. After dropping the opening set, she led the High Speed Hitters in regaining their dominant form.
Kianna Dy chipped in 13 points off 11 attacks and two aces, while middle blockers Mika Reyes and Dell Palomata anchored the defense with a combined five blocks. The two also finished with 11 points each to round out the double-digit scorers for PLDT.
Rookie Alleiah Malaluan also impressed with an all-around effort of nine points and 18 excellent receptions. Meanwhile, veteran setter Kim Fajardo orchestrated the offense with 23 excellent sets on top of three points.
Libero Kath Arado added stability on defense with 20 excellent digs.
With the win, the High Speed Hitters advance to the gold medal match on Sunday at 6:30 PM. There, they will face the winner of the Kobe Shinwa University–Chery Tiggo clash at the same venue.
(C) PVL Images
The Thunderbelles, meanwhile, bowed out of contention for the bronze medal after finishing winless at 0-4, failing to earn a single point in the standings.
Wielyn Estoque led ZUS Coffee with 15 points, all from attacks, along with 11 excellent digs. Dolly Versoza came close to a triple-double with 10 points, nine digs, and 21 excellent receptions.
Kate Santiago scored nine points — all in the opening frame — before sitting out the remainder of the match.
ZUS Coffee will try to end its campaign on a high note when it faces Creamline on Friday at 6:30 PM.
